MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State high jumper Erik Kynard is earning many accolades for his world-leading jump at the Mt. SAC Relays this weekend. After being named USTFCCCA National Athlete of the Week on Monday, Kynard was named Big 12 Athlete of the Week and USATF Athlete of the Week on Wednesday.

Kynard jumped 2.34 meters (7-08.00) to win the Mt. SAC Relays and post the No. 1 jump in the world so far this season outdoors. He was up against a very strong field with multiple Olympians and went toe-to-toe in a tight battle with 2011 IAAF World Champion Jesse Williams and Canadian Michael Mason. All three cleared 2.31 meters (7-07.00) with Kynard the only one of the three to clear on his first attempt. He then would clear 2.34 meters (7-08.00) on his third attempt.

The leap of 2.34 meters is the best mark in the world so far this outdoor season and ties his own school record. It also broke the Mt.SAC Relays meet record and Hilmer Lodge Stadium record.